About Hobart

Hobart: History and Adventure in One Location

Hobart is the second oldest city in Australia - founded in 1804 - and is the capital city of Tasmania. In addition, Hobart is the southernmost capital in Australia and boasts a huge year-round population of well-over 200,000 people. This holiday destination is quite eclectic and offers a fantastic mixture of attractions, activities and amenities to keep guests happy. There is an impressive amount of festivals in Hobart and the food and drinks are top notch. Getting out into nature is never an issue, with the close proximity to Mount Wellington and several national parks. One of the best things about the holiday accommodation in Hobart is no matter where you stay; you are close to the action. Hobart rentals include everything from well-decorated cottages to luxurious apartments overlooking the city; holiday parties of every type are happy in this diverse destination.

Browse Local Art

With a strong art community and many highly inspired local artists, there is no shortage of artwork in Hobart. For the best look at pieces spanning across many generations, head over to the Museum of Old and New Art, which is also known as MONA. This is a privately owned museum that features a number of eccentric exhibits. The artwork is not limited to paintings, with other offerings including sculptures, heavy metals pieces and many other art forms. Salamanca Arts Centre champions local artists and provides a unique setting in which to create their masterpieces. Performance art and static pieces are both created here, among other types of artwork. At the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, you have the opportunity to learn about art and to view it. The museum features many programs for children and adults alike and ever-changing displays of local art pieces.

Take a Unique Look at Hobart's History

Established in the early 1800s as a convict colony, Hobart has a long and colourful history. A fun and entertaining way to learn about Hobart's history, theatrical walks are a popular option for visitors of the area. There are several options available, with some offering secrets about the town's settlement and others focusing on specific people in Hobart's history. During these tours you learn facts in a memorable way and you get to see some of the most historic sites in Hobart. If you prefer a tour with less flair, try a guided tour of the Penitentiary Chapel. Here, view court rooms, the chapel, solitary cells, holding cells and even an execution yard with gallows still in place, among other areas. Guided tours lasting approximately 1 1/2 hours are offered. The Cascades Female Factory Historic Site offers both dramatized and heritage tours of this significant historic site. Very little remains of the original buildings, though this does not take away from the tours. Other important sites to visit include Runnymeade, Parliament House and Shot Tower.

Get a Breath of Fresh Air

Mount Wellington is a must-see when in Hobart. Take the scenic drive up the mountain, and remember to put your coat on before stepping out of the car, as the high winds on the top of the mountain lead to very cold temperatures. There is usually snow on the mountain, even in the summer months.

There are several waterfalls in Hobart, with the most popular being Russell Falls. There are trails leading to the three falls, and there are great areas for photo opportunities. Just past Russell Falls, Horseshoe Falls offers beautiful waterfall scenery, yet more space and much smaller crowds. As you walk between the falls, watch out for wildlife, including but not limited to the platypus.

Parklands abound in Hobart. Some of the most popular destinations for hiking, picnicking, wildlife viewing and scenic exploration include Hartz Mountains National Park, Myrtle Forest and South Bruny National Park. The landscapes in the park vary greatly from snow-capped mountains to lush rainforest and everything in between.

Retail Therapy, Anyone?

Hobart is a fantastic shopping destination. In the central business district, there are a number of trendy clothing stores that cater to younger crowds, while there are also staples, such as Target and Myer, in which to grab holiday supplies. The Salamanca Market occurs every Saturday includes freshly prepared foods, arts and crafts and even souvenirs. The market is held right in the main tourist portion of Hobart, right on the eastern docks. If it is fresh herbs and produce you are looking for, check out Hobart's Farm Gate Market. All of the vendors are friendly and helpful, and the food is absolutely delicious.

So Much to Do in Hobart

Whether you prefer city or county, Hobart has something for you. Even after dark, the city's life does not slow down. Day or night, winter or summer, Hobart is a fantastic holiday destination.